JLR’s Barbara Bergmeier has been named the overall winner at the inaugural Autocar Drivers of Change awards. Held and judged in association with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and Ennis & Co, Autocar Drivers of Change is a new initiative championing diverse talent in the automotive industry. A sibling event to Autocar Great Women, these awards celebrate the automotive industry as a place that welcomes everybody. The 40 Autocar Drivers of Change winners are individuals who are driving change and promoting diversity in their business in whichever role they perform. They were named at an awards ceremony at…

BMW Group UK has kickstarted the year by acknowledging the incredible success and hard work of BMW and MINI retailers throughout the past year at the annual Retailer of the Year 2025 awards. Hosted by comedian Jimmy Carr, retailers were celebrated across a host of categories, recognising exceptional dedication to the BMW and MINI brands, and industry-leading customer service. Winners were selected across a range of categories, from Sales, Customer, Used Cars and Electric. A new award for MINI this year, ‘Rookie of the Year’, served to spotlight those who, with just a minimum of six months under their belt,…

The event, hosted by Connexions Sandwell, saw 2,542 young people/parents attending, which easily beat the previous record attendance of 2,329 in 2024. The record number of visitors were able to meet 50 exhibitors, all keen to inspire, recruit and educate the next generation of Sandwell young workers. Connexions advisers were on hand to give independent careers information, advice and guidance. In addition, and one young person on work experience with Connexions helped the event to run smoothly. Sandwell Council Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Jalal Uddin, said: “Sandwell’s young people are the future of the borough. We…

The Deutsche Bank Awards for Creative Enterprise (DBACE) help creative entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality. Aspiring individuals who want to go into business in the creative industries and require practical and financial support are being targeted. Applicants will be able to explore, develop and establish their creative ideas into sustainable ventures – through business planning training, mentoring and capital funding for starting-up. The programme aims to find the best talent with the ability to drive positive social impact through their creative enterprise. DBACE welcomes applications from UK entrepreneurs aged 18 and over, who have a strong idea or an…

Thomas McGeever, from Market Drayton, Telford, was among 26 exceptional individuals honoured with the esteemed British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to society. The Medal Presentation, held on Thursday 23rd January, saw Thomas receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Service to Community (BCAc). Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominals to commemorate their achievements. Tom has committed his time, knowledge and passion into countless community projects within the West Midlands for the past 12 years. Always striving to make an impact and generate meaningful change to community groups, most…

Sandwell Council has awarded Sandwell & West Birmingham NHS Trust the Freedom of the Borough. The award was made during an event on Wednesday 11 December as part of Sandwell’s 50th anniversary celebrations. This prestigious honour is a recognition of the extraordinary commitment, dedication and resilience shown by all those who work within the NHS, from doctors and nurses to support staff, paramedics and volunteers. Over the years, the NHS has not only been the backbone of our healthcare system but also a beacon of compassion, selflessness and unwavering service to the people of this country. The Mayor of Sandwell, Councillor…

After another successful Women On the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC) party and two weeks of fundraising known as WOMAC Weeks, the organisation has exceeded its pledge to 2024 charities Oesophageal Patients Association (OPA) and Cure Leukaemia to £8,000 each and donated a further £1,500 to three additional charities bringing the total donated so far this year to £20,500. Two fantastic causes – Oesophageal Patients Association (OPA) and Cure Leukaemia – were nominated by Committee members or Patrons thanks to the support they have provided to loved ones during a cancer diagnosis and treatment. OPA has led the fight against oesophageal…